Stucco is a decorative and durable material that can be applied to almost any type of wall. However, it requires specialized application tools and safety gear, such as eye protection and gloves. To reduce the risk of mishaps, it’s important to hire a professional for your stucco installation.
Before beginning the installation process, stucco contractors will examine current sheathing materials and insulation, as well as structural elements like studs and headers, to ensure that the structure will support the stucco and minimize movement. Contact Dryvit Stucco Installation now!
The choice of cladding materials can make or break the project. It also depends on several factors like budgets, insulation needs, weather resistance, and maintenance schedules. There are two popular cladding choices: EIFS and traditional stucco. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. EIFS, for example, is a modern building material that provides superior insulation and reduces energy bills. It also features a durable base coat that resists impact and punctures. However, it’s a little more expensive than traditional stucco and is vulnerable to moisture damage.
Stucco, on the other hand, is a classic construction material that is known for its durability and resistance to harsh conditions. Its only major weakness is its susceptibility to moisture problems. When installed without a water-resistive barrier, it may absorb water that can swell and crack the walls. The problem can worsen in frigid temperatures, where the moisture can freeze and expand again. Moisture issues can also cause color instability and efflorescence, which is a white powdery substance that appears on the surface of the walls.
The process of installing stucco requires expertise and precision to ensure it adheres to building codes and standards. The walls should be inspected and cleaned before the process begins. In addition, studs, headers and framing members should be properly supported to reduce the likelihood of structural stability issues later on. The lath, which is made from asphalt infused paper and metal wire, should be properly prepared. A scratch coat, brown coat and top coat should then be applied to the wall.
Preparing the Surface
Stucco installation requires expertise and precision, and it must adhere to building codes. Choosing the right materials is essential, but so is preparing the surface for the application of stucco. This step is often overlooked, but it can have a big impact on the final result.
Stucco needs to be installed on a sheathing material such as plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or cement board. The sheathing is attached to the support studs of the wall, and this layer is crucial for the integrity of the finished stucco. It also ensures that the stucco will be able to withstand a number of environmental stresses, such as varying temperatures and humidity levels.
If the sheathing isn’t properly prepared, moisture can seep behind the stucco and cause damage. The resulting moisture can lead to mold growth, which poses health risks for the building’s occupants, and it can also cause the stucco to crack or discolor.
To prevent this from happening, the sheathing should be covered with a water-resistant barrier, such as building paper or dimpled housewrap. This is especially important in climates that experience frequent freeze-thaw cycles or extreme snow and iceing. A reputable contractor will ensure that the sheathing is fully protected with these barriers. It’s also crucial to ensure that the sheathing is vented so moisture can escape. This will reduce the risk of structural problems down the road.
Applying the Base Coat
After lathing the wall, stucco contractors apply a scratch coat to roughen it. This helps the brown coat and other coatings adhere to the surface. It also helps prevent water from penetrating the walls, causing mold and mildew. The scratch coat is a mixture of sand and cement that is applied in lines. It should be mixed with cool water so that it doesn’t dry too quickly.
During this process, the stucco contractor may use acid etch, sandblast, or a brush hammer to roughen the wall surface. This is especially important if the surface has been painted or sealed, or if it is too smooth for a strong bond. It is also crucial to ensure that the drainage plane behind the stucco is properly established. This allows the moisture that stains stucco to run down the surface, rather than into the walls of the home.
Before beginning the next phase, the stucco contractor will clean the surface to remove dust and debris. They will also make sure that any existing damage is repaired. For example, roof rakes should have wide overhangs to protect the wall from drips. Window and door frames need pan flashing at sills and Z-flashing with end dams at heads to protect the wall from moisture. This step is especially important because a lot of moisture damage to homes is caused by leaks and condensation around windows, doors, and other openings.
Applying the Second Coat
Stucco is a unique and beautiful option that can be used on just about any building structure. It creates a hard rock-like finish and adds character to any home. It is also incredibly durable and can resist moisture, mold, rot, and termite infestations. It is also a great choice for energy efficiency as it helps to regulate indoor temperatures, keeping them warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
It is important to keep in mind that stucco is a time-consuming process. Several factors can affect the timeline, including weather conditions, which can affect both the workers’ ability to work and the curing time of the plaster. In addition, the availability of materials can also impact the timeline. It is also important to remember that stucco needs to be protected from weathering and other environmental factors after it is applied.
Once the scratch coat has cured, it is time to apply the brown layer. This is a second layer that smoothes the surface and establishes an even foundation for the final coat. It is sprayed and is composed of Portland cement, sand, and water.
After the brown coat has dried, it is time to paint. It is recommended to use a premium paint that is designed specifically for stucco surfaces. It is important to spray in systematic sections and from multiple angles in order to fully cover the heavily textured stucco.
Applying the Third Coat
When it comes to a stucco installation, a three-coat system is the best choice. This will ensure that the final result is durable and long-lasting. The first step of the process is applying the scratch coat, which is a mixture of sand and cement. This is then left to cure before the brown coat can be applied. The brown coat is a vital part of the stucco process, as it helps to fill in any irregularities in the scratch coat and prepares the plaster for the finish coating.
When the sheathing is installed, it is important to make sure that it is properly fastened to the support studs. This will help to prevent moisture from damaging the framing and can also reduce movement cracks in the stucco.
It is also recommended that the sheathing be a rigid material like plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), cement board or exterior grade gypsum sheathing. It is possible to stucco over wood-framing without sheathing, but this will result in a less dense and less structurally sound wall.
To further reduce cracking, it is a good idea to install control joints. These are placed at predetermined locations to help relieve stress in the stucco. According to Rich Baker, a building performance specialist with IBACOS Homebuilding Quality Consulting in Pittsburgh, control joints should be spaced about every 144 square feet. This will also help to reduce the amount of time needed to complete the job.
Applying the Finish Coat
A stucco home is a beautiful addition to any property, but it requires proper care and maintenance to preserve its durability. Regular cleaning is essential to keep dirt, stains, and pollutants from accumulating on the surface. Stucco can be cleaned with mild detergents and a soft brush or cloth.
The final step in the stucco process is applying the finish coat, which adds aesthetic appeal to the wall. This layer is typically tinted with pigment to achieve the desired color, and it may also be coated with a sealer to help protect the finish from weathering.
Once the base and brown coats have been applied, it is time to apply the finish coat. This is the most important layer of the three-coat system, as it determines the overall appearance of the final product. This coat can be smooth or textured, and it can be tinted with a wide range of colors. A textured finish can create interesting shadowing effects, while a smooth finish will allow more light to reflect off the surface.
Whether your home has a stucco finish or not, it is worth taking the time to research and select the right texture for your property. A well-chosen texture will complement your home’s architectural style and personal taste. If you are unsure which type of texture to choose, it is always a good idea to ask for samples from the contractor or to visit other homes with stucco finishes.